New Winter means new gear!

[random006]

Hi folks,

My 2018 Crosstrek's Blizzak WS80's turned 8 this fall, as did the steel wheels upon which they reside.  At the same time, Mrs. Random was busy getting new winters for her "new to her" 2024 Honda Civic.

I thought to myself: 
"You know, I could use some tires.  And why not some new rims while I'm at it."

So, ordered a set of brand new Michelin X-Ice Snow+ for the Subie.

I also ordered a set of these babies to go with.  See attached photo.

I'll post the finished product once they are installed on the wee beastie.

[RRocket]

Slick!!

[Blueprint]

Woah, these look good !! 

Welcome back, fellow Crosstrek fan!

[random006]

Update:

I brought my car into my garage to get the new stuff installed on Wednesday, only to encounter a problem.  Those new rims don't fit properly.     The guy who runs the garage, who I have known for decades btw, didn't feel right in using what is clearly a poor choice.  He told me he would look into it.

The guy called and said they have received a different product, one which he feels would work.  They are only about $10 more per rim, which is acceptable given that the ENVY rims were quoted at $200.00 per rim. 

I'm going to see them on Monday.  I'm hoping they will fit as I want to get them on before the first snow and/or freezing rain hits Montreal. El Ninõ or no, winter in Montreal is still a real thing.  As is the law governing winter tire use.

[random006]

Round 2!

New rims are in and they fit perfectly.  The new ones are from Replika and look much closer to Subaru style OEM wheels.  Pic below. 

Apparently the problem with the first set was that the hub was not sized correctly thereby causing a wobble and poor weight distribution. 

Wheels, new tires and a brake job scheduled for next week, the universe willing.

[random006]

Annnnnnnnnd .... here they are!  Mounted and spiffed up for showing and shining:

[RRocket]

Nice!!

My turn on Thursday

[Tortoise]

Looks great!

It's been so warm out I haven't even considered putting the winter tires on.

[random006]

Looks great!

It's been so warm out I haven't even considered putting the winter tires on.

Yes it has been quite mild indeed.  My wife and I were out in our T-shirts and jeans for a walk just last week! 

Here in Quebec however, the law mandates a hard date for the changeover.  Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 15 inclusively. 

I am never pressured by the law, myself.  I've been using dedicated winter tires for about 30 years voluntarily.  I usually get my tires changed anywhere from Oct 30 to Nov 15.  I've seen what happens when drivers are caught unawares by the capriciousness of Mother Nature.  Nothing quite like that heart stopping sensation of hitting the brakes in slush and sliding toward that intersection and a very red light to make you vow to never get caught unprepared again.

The worst day to be out driving is the first snowy day of winter.  It's as if we are suffering from collective amnesia with regards to driving.  For Montreal, that day is this Thursday and going into Friday.  Several cm of snow are due that day, starting just around evening rush hour Thursday and finishing just before morning rush hour Friday . 

I am so happy I'm retired.

[RRocket]

Looks great!

It's been so warm out I haven't even considered putting the winter tires on.

Yes it has been quite mild indeed.  My wife and I were out in our T-shirts and jeans for a walk just last week! 

Here in Quebec however, the law mandates a hard date for the changeover.  Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 15 inclusively. 

I am never pressured by the law, myself.  I've been using dedicated winter tires for about 30 years voluntarily.  I usually get my tires changed anywhere from Oct 30 to Nov 15.  I've seen what happens when drivers are caught unawares by the capriciousness of Mother Nature.  Nothing quite like that heart stopping sensation of hitting the brakes in slush and sliding toward that intersection and a very red light to make you vow to never get caught unprepared again.

The worst day to be out driving is the first snowy day of winter.  It's as if we are suffering from collective amnesia with regards to driving.  For Montreal, that day is this Thursday and going into Friday.  Several cm of snow are due that day, starting just around evening rush hour Thursday and finishing just before morning rush hour Friday . 

I am so happy I'm retired.

Ya, that's why I've tried all-weather tires the last few times. Never caught out by a switchover. Plus I'm retired and lazy now! LOL 😆

I really like the Vredesteins for this.